The latest report on colonoscopy delays across Ireland is deeply alarming and a stark reminder of the urgent need for immediate action to protect patient lives.

Between January and May of this year, more than 2,700 people waited beyond the HSE recommended 28-day urgent timeframe for a colonoscopy. These are not just statistics – these delays are putting lives at risk by jeopardising early cancer diagnosis and timely treatment.

Behind every statistic are real people—real lives, real families, real futures.

This marks the second deeply troubling report this month exposing dangerous delays across Ireland’s cancer care system. An earlier report revealed that in some hospitals, fewer than 70% of cancer patients are receiving timely treatment — and in one case, only 12%.

In response, Marie Keating Foundation CEO Liz Yeates said: “These are not isolated failings. This is a national cancer care crisis.

Early diagnosis remains the most effective tool we have in improving cancer outcomes. Every delay is a devastating risk.

In 2017, no patient waited beyond the recommended timeframe for a colonoscopy. In 2025, if current trends continue, more than 6,500 people may face unacceptable delays. That is not progress – it is regression.

We strongly echo the call from healthcare professionals for urgent investment in diagnostic services, particularly in endoscopy units.

The Government must treat this as the urgent public health issue it is and commit serious investment in Budget 2026 and in the National Cancer Strategy without delay.”